Subcommittee discussion of the future of forest policy in the United States. Our testimony will highlight the vital role our forests play as a strategic national resource that will continue to ensure water quality and quantity, provide renewable energy, mitigate climate change and allow wildlife to adapt to new habitats. I will also address the importance of markets for traditional forest products as well as for "ecosystem services" in ensuring that the nation's forests provide environmental services today and for future generations.

Hearing on Options for Wildfire Suppression Funding: Addressing wildland fire is a much larger, more complex land management and societal issue that cannot be solved by one agency or piece of legislation alone. Solving the impact of skyrocketing fire suppression costs is only one piece of the puzzle, but it is one that is within our reach.

House Natural Resources Committee hearing on the Federal Land Assistance, Management and Enhancement (FLAME) Act and the Emergency Wildland Fire Response Act (EWFRA)

On behalf of the National Association of State Foresters (NASF), I would like to thank Chairman Dicks and Ranking Member Tiahrt for the opportunity to appear before the Committee today. The National Association of State Foresters represents the directors of the state forestry agencies of all fifty states, eight territories, and the District of Columbia. State Foresters manage and protect state and private forests across the US, which encompass two-thirds of the nation’s forests.

Mr. Chairman and Members of the Subcommittee:  My name is Kirk Rowdabaugh and I am the State Forester of Arizona.  Last year, I represented the National Association of State Foresters (NASF) on the strategic issues panel, chartered by the Wildland Fire Leadership Council, which recently completed an in-depth study of wildland fire cost containment issues.